Overview
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' is a fern in the genus Osmunda, part of the Osmundaceae family. It typically grows around 2.0 m tall. Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. It is native to SFF Iguaque.
About
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' is a fern in the Osmundaceae that typically grows to about 2.0 m. It prefers full sun and suits sandy, loamy or clay soils that remain moist or wet, or are at least moist but well-drained. With a UK hardiness of H7 (USDA 4–9) it is fully hardy and reliably provides seasonal interest through the summer. The cultivar epithet 'Cristata' identifies it as a named selection within the Osmunda genus.
Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Osmunda regalis
About the genus
Osmunda is a genus of primarily temperate-zone ferns of family Osmundaceae. Five to ten species have been listed for this genus. They have existed since the Early Cretaceous.
Wikipedia contributors, "Osmunda", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Osmunda
In the garden
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' is a cultivated form within the Osmunda genus (family Osmundaceae) originating from SFF Iguaque. Allowing for its typical mature height of around 2.0 m, it brings pronounced vertical presence in areas where soil moisture is consistent during the growing season. Place this fern in a sunny spot and match the soil type to its tolerance: sandy, loamy or clay soils all suit it, provided the ground is moist or wet, or at least moist but well-drained. The plant is rated H7 for UK hardiness (USDA zones 4–9), meaning it is fully hardy and does not generally require winter protection in most UK gardens. It shows its main seasonal interest during summer. Use Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' where summer height and reliable moisture coincide — the back of a moisture-retentive border or a damp section of the garden are appropriate positions. Given its stature, allow space for mature spread and ensure soil remains reliably damp through dry spells for best performance. At roughly 2.0 m tall it will provide a clear vertical element where summer growth is wanted.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Osmunda
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Sandy, Loamy, Clay
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Wet
- UK hardiness
- H7
Plant details
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Fern
- Height
- 2.0 m
- Native to
- SFF Iguaque
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Osmunda regalis 'Cristata'?
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' prefers full sun.
What soil does Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' need?
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to wet.
How big does Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' grow?
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' reaches a height of 2.0 m.
Is Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' hardy in the UK?
Osmunda regalis 'Cristata' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.
More in the Osmunda genus
- Osmunda cinnamomeacinnamon fern
- Osmunda claytonianainterrupted fern
- Osmunda lancea
- Osmunda regalis var. gracilisRoyal Fern
